For two full weeks, the city of Berlin has been covered in a stunning spectacle of lights in which artists have illuminated the surfaces of more than 70 famous city landmarks. According to the website, the festival “is one of the largest and best-known illumination festivals and public events in the world.” Local and international artists participate in the annual exhibition in which they concoct a variety of displays set against unique visual platforms. From historical buildings to cultural monuments, from hotels to the Berlin Cathedral, the free event can be appreciated citywide.

The show is a huge draw for tourists across the globe and has had significant positive impact on Berlin’s economy. Regular tours zip visitors around town by bus, by boat, and even by hot air balloon, to catch a glimpse of each light installation, which shine from about 7pm every night through midnight. Festival organizer Birgit Zander developed the concept because she was inspired to transform her hometown of Berlin into a stage for locals and visitors alike, and she says, “Light is life, light is energy, light is able to speak all languages of the world and light connects people.”

This visually captivating festival can be viewed in Berlin through October 21, 2012.